Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan Champions Renewable Energy at Summit

At the Bharat [Renewable Energy](/topic/renewable-energy) Summit & Expo 2026 held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan delivered a powerful address underscoring India's remarkable achievements in the renewable energy sector. He articulated a vision where environmental commitments serve as catalysts for economic growth rather than obstacles, asserting that India has successfully demonstrated that a developing nation can thrive while reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.

The Vice-President emphasized the need for a collective movement towards clean energy, stating, "The renewable energy transition must become a people’s movement, creating economic opportunities and household prosperity." This call to action reflects a broader strategy to engage citizens and industries alike in the transition to sustainable energy sources.

Highlighting specific metrics, the Vice-President noted that India’s non-fossil fuel-based installed capacity has surpassed 300 gigawatts, achieving a significant milestone of 50% of its total installed electricity capacity from non-fossil sources by 2025—five years ahead of its commitment. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of India’s policies and the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including state governments and private enterprises.

In a decade, solar power capacity has skyrocketed from less than 3 gigawatts to over 170 gigawatts, transforming the energy landscape. The Vice-President remarked, "Solar power, once several times more expensive than coal-based electricity, is now among the cheapest sources of electricity in India." This shift not only reflects advancements in technology but also the impact of sound policy frameworks that encourage investment and innovation.

The Vice-President also addressed the promising developments in hydrogen energy, stating that India is making encouraging progress in this area. He expressed confidence that ongoing advancements in science and technology will render hydrogen energy more affordable in the coming years. This focus on hydrogen aligns with global trends towards diversifying energy sources and enhancing energy security.

A significant aspect of the Vice-President's address was the emphasis on how renewable energy initiatives are empowering households, farmers, and communities across India. He highlighted that over 6.5 million households have benefited from the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, gaining access to affordable clean energy. Furthermore, nearly 3 million farmers have participated in the PM-KUSUM scheme, which provides solar pumps that not only reduce diesel costs but also enable farmers to generate additional income.

The Vice-President referred to these farmers as "Urjadatas," or givers of energy, illustrating the dual role they play in both food production and energy generation. This empowerment is crucial in rural areas where traditional energy sources may be limited or inaccessible.

In his address, the Vice-President also spotlighted initiatives aimed at extending electricity access to remote tribal regions. Programs like PM-JANMAN and the Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan are crucial in providing electricity to areas where conventional grid connectivity is not feasible. These initiatives reflect a commitment to inclusivity in India’s energy transition, ensuring that even the most marginalized communities benefit from the country’s renewable energy advancements.

Vice-President Radhakrishnan concluded his address by asserting that India’s renewable energy transformation serves as an inspiring model for the Global South. He reiterated Prime Minister [Narendra Modi](/topic/narendra-modi)’s vision that environmental commitments can drive growth, enhance energy access, lower industrial costs, create jobs, and reduce import dependence. The Vice-President called for stronger collaboration between industry and academia, stating, "The technologies of 2040 will come from the laboratories and start-ups of today," emphasizing the importance of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in shaping the future of energy.

This summit not only showcased India’s achievements but also set the stage for a renewed commitment to sustainable development, positioning the country as a leader in the global renewable energy landscape.